Noncredit Programs and Courses
Noncredit Programs and Courses
Noncredit education is designed to support a student's growth through enhancing academic skills, personal development and employment opportunities through a variety of classes ranging from basic skills Math and English to employability skills, vocational preparation and job retraining. Enrollment in noncredit courses is free and continues throughout the school year. Noncredit courses follow the same curriculum approval process used for credit courses, and all classes are taught by qualified instructors.
Agriculture
This course is a general HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) training designed for individuals working in the food industry who want to earn a HACCP certification. This HACCP training course teaches participants how to implement and manage the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) system, which was designed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a food safety management system for controlling food hazards. Upon successful completion of the course, students will earn a certificate of completion from the International HACCP Alliance. This HACCP Certificate will be recognized domestically and internationally by food safety inspectors and auditors.
This course is a training in produce safety designed for individuals working in the produce industry. The course is especially relevant for fruit and vegetable growers and others interested in learning about produce safety, the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), Produce Safety Rule, Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs), and co-management of natural resources and food safety. The PSA Grower Training Course is one way to satisfy the FSMA Produce Safety Rule requirement outlined in the Code of Federal Regulations § 112.22(c) which requires that at least one responsible party on a farm has completed food safety training recognized as adequate by the Food and Drug Administration.
This course will provide participants with the knowledge to implement the requirements of the Foreign Supplier Verification Programs (FSVP) for "Importers of Food for Humans and Animals” regulation of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This regulation is one of a number of regulations and guidance documents that implement the provisions of the 2011 Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), which focuses on safe food practices.
This course is intended for individuals working in the food industry seeking to meet the requirements for a human food Preventive Controls Qualified Individual certificate. The Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk-based Preventive Controls for Human Food regulation (referred to as the Preventive Controls for Human Food regulation) is intended to ensure safe manufacturing/processing, packing and holding of food products for human consumption in the United States. The regulation requires that certain activities must be completed by a Preventive Controls Qualified Individual who has successfully completed training in the development and application of risk-based preventive controls.
This course is intended for individuals working in the food industry seeking to meet the requirements for an animal food Preventive Controls Qualified Individual (PCQI) certificate. The Current Good Manufacturing Practice and Hazard Analysis and Risk-based Preventive Controls for Food for Animals (referred to as the Preventive Controls for Animal Food regulation) is intended to ensure safe manufacturing/processing, packing, and holding of food products for animal consumption in the United States. The regulation requires that certain activities must be completed by a Preventive Controls Qualified Individual who has successfully completed training in the development and application of risk-based preventive controls.
This is an introductory course in food safety for those majoring in agriculture and/or working in food safety related careers or industries. The course covers conditions and practices that cause food borne illnesses, organisms responsible for food borne illnesses, elements of a food safety control system, and worker sanitation. The course focus is on establishing good agricultural practices (GAP) in food safety as they relate to the production of farm products, including specific guidelines for key agricultural commodities, state and federal regulations, and food safety monitoring. Students will learn to create standard operating procedures (SOP) associated with employee training and the safe production, transportation, and processing of food. Best practices in the retail and home kitchen environments will also be covered.
This course covers the creation and documentation of key elements in a food safety program, including: evaluating current practices, creating and implementing key aspects of a food safety program, and recognizing and documenting pathogen behavior. This course also covers food safety issues and concerns in processing and manufacturing facilities, including: facility sanitation, recognizing potential hazards, analysis of problems in the cold chain, developing improved practices, HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point) principles, employee training, and the inspection process.
This course is designed to give the student a better understanding of the issues involved in the regulation of foods and a general understanding of the full scope of food safety laws in the United States. The course covers the laws regulating the production, processing, manufacturing, distribution, and sale of food products in the United States. Topics include the regulation of labeling, food safety, genetic modification, FSMA (Food Safety Modernization Act), inspections, importation, enforcement, and many other issues of concern in the regulation of food in the United States.
This course is an introduction to the principles of food microbiology and food safety. The course investigates the beneficial and harmful effects of microorganisms on food, and includes a survey of the types of microbes found in various types of food, as well as methods for their detection. Evaluation of methods of microbial control and mechanisms of disease of important food microorganisms, as well as sources of food contamination, are presented. An examination of the implementation and effectiveness of food safety programs is also covered.
This course is taught primarily in Spanish and aimed at current agriculture laborers or those interested in becoming crew leaders in both agriculture field and facility settings. The course covers human resource management skills, laws regulating agricultural production, and the use of labor in agriculture. Topics include basic human resource management, hiring, required labor documentation, applicable labor laws, wages, and the rights of agricultural laborers. Likewise, effective communication, conflict resolution, negotiation and leadership strategies will be discussed. The course is designed especially for agricultural field supervisors to provide a better understanding of effective management and leadership practices for successful oversight of labor within the production setting.
This course is taught primarily in Spanish and aimed at current agriculture laborers or those interested in becoming crew leaders in both agriculture field and facility settings. The course covers laws regulating agricultural production and the use of labor in agriculture. Topics include agricultural exemptions from labor laws, the Migrant and Seasonal Agricultural Worker Protection Act, and the rights of agricultural laborers. Likewise, specific regulations and laws governing agricultural production in California will be discussed. The course is designed especially for agricultural field supervisors to provide them with a better understanding of the issues involved in the regulation of agricultural production and labor within the production setting.
Assistive Computer Technology
This course is designed to teach students basic keyboarding computer skills, techniques, and assistive computer technology that will enable them to be successful in accessing the computer in general work environments. Students will review ergonomics, software that will accommodate students with disabilities (such as Kurzweil 3000, Dragon, or JAWS), and other assistive technology tools. Students will utilize and practice skills in individualized weekly typing tutorials and MS Word assignments that will focus on developing keyboarding skills applicable to various work environments and mastery of assistive computer software.
This course is designed to teach students basic computer skills and assistive computer technology that will enable them to be successful in utilizing various industry standard platforms, such as Microsoft Office and Google Docs. Students will review software that accommodates students with disabilities, such as Kurzweil 3000, Dragon Naturally Speaking, and TextHelp. In addition, they will be introduced to other assistive computer technology tools and alternative applications. Students will practice skills in individualized weekly computer oriented assignments that will focus on developing better awareness of assistive computer technology skills, tools, and software and their application in the home and work environment.
This course is designed to teach students computer skills, techniques, and assistive computer technology that will enable them to successfully complete writing projects at home and in the workplace. Students will review English basics, including grammar, sentence structure, composition, and writing skills. Focus will be on introducing software that will accommodate students with disabilities. Students will utilize and practice skills in individualized writing assignments that will focus on writing skills.
Automotive Career Education
This non-credit course provides the basic knowledge and skills to service, adjust, and repair engine performance and emissions systems as related to the Smog Check Inspection Program. The course meets the California Bureau of Automotive Repair Smog Check Inspector Level 1 certification requirements. This is a noncredit course, non-degree applicable.
This non-credit course provides students with the procedural skills, knowledge, and abilities to perform Smog Check Inspections. The course meets the California Bureau of Automotive Repair Smog Check Inspector Level 2 certification requirements.
This course provides students with current and emerging emissions control and smog inspection technology updates. On-Board Diagnostics II, emissions systems, and diagnostic test equipment are emphasized. This is a noncredit course, not degree applicable.
Business
This course introduces Microsoft Word. Students will learn to create, edit, and format various business documents such as letters, memos, forms, reports, newsletters, and templates. Integration of images, use of macros, tables, labels, mail merge, and creation of forms will also be covered. The emphasis is on tasks typically required in an office or business environment. The skills taught in this course are fundamental to success in careers in business, accounting, marketing, management, and medical assisting.
This course provides a foundation of the knowledge and skills needed for creating and using spreadsheets in Microsoft Excel. Students will learn how to create, edit, and format spreadsheets. Topics will include formulas, functions, pivot tables, sorting, and filtering in worksheets. The course is designed to provide the fundamental skills needed for application in an office or business environment. The skills taught in this course are fundamental to success in careers in business, accounting, marketing, and management.
In this course, students will learn how to use a powerful graphics presentation program to create effective presentations for business or for college courses using Microsoft PowerPoint. The course covers accepted standards for developing and formatting a presentation, use of design templates, and adding images, graphs and charts. Advanced topics include slide show enhancement using transitions, animation, sound, and hyperlinks.
This course introduces the basic skills needed to use a personal computer, including working with multiple windows, file management, Windows accessories, software applications, and computer safety. Use and features of productivity tools such as Outlook, Google Docs, and cloud services will also be covered.
In this course students will learn to identify attributes of an effective business office assistant/receptionist and develop listening and communication skills, filing, telephone, and basic computer skills. Time management and conflict resolution will also be covered. Additionally, students will create a resume and practice interviewing techniques.
Cognitively Diverse Learners
This course provides training in personal, social, and job skills for students who have intellectual disabilities, autism, and/or significant cognitive deficits. Through role-playing and class discussion, students will develop the skills necessary for responsible independence and enhanced quality of life and improving soft skills. Topics will include developing healthy relationships, values and decision making, sexuality, health, and personal protection and safety. In addition, students will be introduced to the interpersonal skills necessary in a job setting. Finding, getting, and keeping a job are the goals of this class.
This basic personal and vocational finance course is designed for the student with developmental disabilities, autism, and/or significant cognitive deficits who is preparing for independent living and vocational training. Topics related to consumer finance will include basic mathematics, currency, budgeting, responsible spending and saving, shopping, banking, insurance, taxes, and consumer loans. In addition, students will review the financial and personal skills necessary in the workplace, such as the ability to access workplace software and technology, customer service, and appropriate workplace behavior. Emphasis will be placed on the application of financial concepts and skills in real-world situations.
Educational Assistance Center
Educational Assistance Center (EAC) courses are designed for students with disabilities.
This course is designed for persons with disabilities who wish to improve their job-seeking strategies. Topics will include assessment of personal and work-related skills, job search and planning techniques, employee rights and responsibilities, interview techniques, applications, and resumes for use in job placement.
English
This non-credit course provides additional support for students in ENGL C1000 through small group workshops and individual conferences with Writing Center tutors or English instructors. Students must complete at least 8 hours of participation to successfully complete the course.
This course is focused on developing effective sentences, coherent paragraphs, and well-structured essays; students will also analyze short passages as models for writing. The course emphasizes practical strategies for academic writing success through structured activities and expert guidance. Designed to enhance writing skills and build confidence, students can enroll at any time and progress at their own pace, making it a flexible and valuable resource for academic growth.
This critical reading course focuses on the effective use of critical thinking in a cross-disciplinary framework. Emphasis is on the development of critical reading skills related to interpretation, analysis, and evaluation of various academic texts across disciplines.
This course explores the creative, editorial, and production processes involved in publishing a college literary magazine. Students participate in all stages of editing, layout, and promotion for VC Voices and related campus publications, developing skills in editorial judgment, inclusive collaboration, and digital design. Submissions may be multimodal (e.g., audio, video, digital/interactive pieces), and final publications may appear in print and online.
English as a Second Language
This is a beginning course for non and limited English proficient students who want to acquire the communication skills necessary for living, working, and attending school where English is used. Integration of computer literacy, such as basic computer knowledge and keyboarding will help students build the basic skill set needed in the workplace, in school, and other aspects of their daily lives.
This is a high-beginning course for limited-English-proficient students who want to acquire the communication skills necessary for living, working, and attending school where English is used. Integration of computer literacy, such as basic computer knowledge, keyboarding, and use of applications will help students build the basic skill set needed in the workplace, in school, and other aspects of their daily lives.
This is an intermediate course for students who want to continue developing the listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills necessary for living, working, and attending school where English is used. This course will focus on communication and critical thinking skills and will help students continue to develop computer literacy.
This is a high-intermediate course for limited-English proficient students who want to develop the listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills necessary for living, working, and attending school where English is used. Students will develop communication and critical thinking skills and continue to develop computer literacy.
This noncredit bridge course strengthens foundational English grammar for everyday communication. Students practice simple present and simple past, basic word order, common connectors (and, but, so, because, when, if), and punctuation to improve clarity in short messages and paragraphs. Designed as optional support for multilingual learners preparing for low-intermediate grammar and writing.
This course prepares beginning-level, non-native-English-speaking students to enter the workforce or a CE/vocational program for general or specific occupations. The course focuses on workplace communication, work-related vocabulary skills, job applications and postings, workplace safety and issues, and vocational readings with emphasis on verbal communication through basic language skills instruction.
This course prepares high-beginning-level, non-native-English-speaking students to enter the workforce or a CE/vocational program for general or specific occupations. The course focuses on workplace communication, work-related vocabulary skills, job applications and postings, workplace safety and issues, and vocational readings with emphasis on verbal communication through high-beginning language skills instruction.
This course prepares low-intermediate-level, non-native-English-speaking students to enter the workforce or a CE/vocational program for general or specific occupations. The course focuses on workplace communication, work-related vocabulary skills, workplace safety and issues, workplace culture, and vocational readings with emphasis on verbal communication through intermediate language skills instruction.
This course prepares high-intermediate-level, non-native-English-speaking students to enter the workforce or a CE/vocational program for general or specific occupations. The course focuses on workplace communication, work-related vocabulary skills, workplace safety and issues, workplace culture, and vocational readings with emphasis on verbal communication through intermediate language skills instruction.
The course is designed to increase a beginning English learner's basic ability to understand spoken English and use English in conversation. Students practice dialogues and role-play in a variety of common situations, such as making phone calls, shopping, and asking directions, in order to build active listening and speaking skills.
The course is designed to develop an intermediate English learner's ability to comprehend spoken English and improve fluency in conversation. Emphasis is on oral communication through the practice of situational dialogues, role-playing, and skits on functional topics, including visiting health practitioners, interacting at work, and fulfilling daily household necessities.
This noncredit course is designed for beginning English language learners to develop basic computer skills. Students will learn to operate devices, manage files, and understand key computer-related vocabulary. The course focuses on essential computer operations, building digital literacy while improving basic English communication skills.
This noncredit course is for intermediate English language learners to enhance their computer skills and digital literacy. Building on foundational knowledge, students will develop proficiency in operating devices, managing digital files, and using advanced software applications. The course covers complex digital tasks such as word processing and online collaboration, with a focus on improving digital communication, critical thinking, and online research skills while advancing English language proficiency.
English for Multilingual Students
This course is designed to instruct the intermediate multilingual learner in the fundamental grammar structures needed for clear written and spoken communication. Instruction emphasizes the use of simple, progressive, and perfect verb tenses; modals; and basic sentence variety with coordination and subordination. Students will practice applying these forms in everyday, workplace, and academic contexts through short readings, conversations, and paragraph writing.
This academic listening and speaking course is designed for intermediate multilingual students. Instruction will focus on the improvement of oral fluency and listening comprehension. Emphasis is on vocabulary development, pronunciation, fluency, presentation skills, and comprehension.
This course is designed to instruct the intermediate ESL learner in the fundamental skills of academic reading and writing. Writing topics include compound and complex sentences, verb tenses, and punctuation applied to academic paragraphs. Reading skills include identifying main ideas in paragraphs and longer passages, vocabulary development, use of context, literal and inferential comprehension, and recognizing basic patterns of organization.
This course is designed for high-intermediate multilingual learners who want to strengthen grammatical accuracy and variety for academic and professional communication. Students study advanced verb forms, the passive voice, and adverb clauses of time, reason, and contrast. Emphasis is on producing clear, fluent paragraphs that show grammatical control and appropriate sentence variety. Grammar is practiced through readings, discussions, and paragraph-level writing.
This academic listening and speaking course is designed for high-intermediate multilingual students. Instruction will focus on the improvement of oral fluency and listening comprehension. Emphasis is on vocabulary development, pronunciation, fluency, presentation skills, and comprehension.
This course is designed to instruct the high-intermediate ESL learner in further developing skills of academic reading and strengthening paragraph writing. Writing topics include sentence structures and phrases used to write paragraphs to compare, contrast, show cause, and/or show effect. Reading skills include identifying main ideas in multi-paragraph passages, vocabulary development, use of context, literal and inferential comprehension, and recognizing basic patterns of organization.
This grammar course is designed for multilingual students preparing for academic courses. The focus will be on recognizing grammar and sentence structure errors that interfere with cohesion, coherence, and unity. Students will edit and revise paragraphs and essays. Instruction will emphasize applying complex grammar.
This academic listening and speaking course is designed for advanced multilingual students. Instruction will focus on the improvement of oral fluency and listening comprehension. Emphasis is on vocabulary development, pronunciation, fluency, presentation skills, and comprehension.
This course is designed to instruct the advanced ESL learner in further developing skills of academic reading and the fundamentals of essay writing. Writing topics include paraphrasing and summarizing, paragraph organization and support, thesis statements, and introductory and conclusion paragraphs. Reading skills include reading charts, graphs, and visual data, identifying main ideas in multi-paragraph passages, vocabulary development, use of context, literal and inferential comprehension, and recognizing basic patterns of organization.
Interdisciplinary Studies
This is an open-entry/open-exit supervised tutoring course that provides students assistance in understanding college course assignments. Individualized/small group tutoring sessions are conducted outside of class time in a learning assistance center, and are structured to help students achieve specific course objectives or improve learning and study skills in specific subject matter. The content of this course varies according to the course for which tutoring is sought.
This course is required for students who are interested in being tutors at Ventura College. It is an introduction to the theories and methods of effective tutoring including communication techniques, learning theories and individual and group instruction. The course is designed to provide the student tutor with experience, information, and techniques that will make him/her a more effective tutor.
Manufacturing Technology
This entry-level course is designed for students with or without any machining experience and who are interested in job-skill preparation as applied to safely operating engine lathes and mills in a manufacturing setting. The course is an introduction to CNC (computer numerical control) machining. This is a non-credit course.
This course is an introduction to the general principles of computer numerical control (CNC) machining as applied to machining centers in the manufacturing environment. The focus of the course will be on OJT (On-the-Job-Training) principles as applied to CNC machine operator training. Topics will also include: fundamentals of measurement, current industry-standard blueprint reading, CNC tooling, accessories nomenclature, and machine tool setups and operation. This a noncredit course.
Mathematics
This course reviews the core prerequisite skills, competencies, and concepts for college algebra. It is intended for students who are concurrently enrolled in MATH V04, College Algebra. Just-in-time support topics include learning skills, computational skills developed in intermediate algebra, the vocabulary of algebra, translation from English to algebra, and evaluation of literal expressions and functions.
This course reviews the core prerequisite skills, competencies, and concepts for transfer-level math courses. Topics include the real number system, solving linear, quadratic, and systems of linear equations, factoring polynomials, graphing polynomial functions, and exponentials and logarithms.
This course is a review of the core prerequisite skills, competencies, and concepts from arithmetic and algebra for Math for Elementary Teachers. It is intended for students who are concurrently enrolled in MATH V38. Just-in-time support topics include understanding the basic concepts and operations involving the natural numbers, whole numbers, integers, and rational numbers; solving arithmetic and algebraic application problems; simplifying, evaluating, creating, and interpreting algebraic expressions; applying Polya’s problem solving principles; and applying effective learning skills for success in college.
A review of the core prerequisite skills, competencies, and concepts for college algebra. Intended for students who are concurrently enrolled in MATH V04, college algebra. Just-in-time support topics include: learning skills, computational skills developed in intermediate algebra, the vocabulary of algebra, translation from English to algebra, and evaluation of literal expressions and functions.
This course provides just-in-time support and review for transfer-level Statistics. Math V44J is intended for students who are concurrently enrolled in Math V44. Topics include learning skills and just-in-time support for concepts from arithmetic, pre-algebra, elementary and intermediate algebra, and descriptive statistics that are needed to understand the basics of college-level statistics. Recommended for students with little or no recent knowledge of algebra.
Police Science
This is a basic training course for new law enforcement officers that includes: administration of justice, patrol procedures, firearms, defensive tactics, physical training, First Aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), traffic investigation, water safety, and driver training. This course covers the 910 hours required by the Ventura County Sheriff's Department POST Certification.
This course is an orientation for the P.O.S.T. (Peace Officer Standards and Training) Regular and Modular Academy training. Emphasis is placed on assisting the student in preparing for successful completion of the P.O.S.T. regular or modular academy training.
Spanish
This course is designed to teach students to interpret in a medical context using consecutive, simultaneous, and sight translation. Includes interpreting in a medical setting, pronunciation of Spanish and English names and medical terms, Spanish and English medical terminology, bi-cultural medical communication and regional dialects, scenarios that an interpreter encounters while on the job. Addresses patient/provider communication, cultural interference, interpreter code of ethics and the role of the interpreter in the healthcare setting and industry.
This advanced course builds upon SPAN 160A, focusing on high-level linguistic, cultural, and ethical competencies required in professional medical interpreting. Students will refine their ability to interpret complex medical dialogues, navigate nuanced patient-provider interactions, and apply specialized terminology across diverse medical contexts. Emphasis is placed on advanced consecutive and simultaneous interpreting, sight translation of medical documents, and ethical decision-making consistent with national standards.
This course is an introduction to specialized vocabulary and basic grammatical concepts needed by health profession personnel and their application in practical settings. Includes an introduction to medical terminology in Spanish that includes body structure, body systems, prefixes, suffixes, word roots, false cognates and most common pitfalls due to English interference and linguistic transfer.
This course is a continuation of SPAN N170A, designed for healthcare professionals and students preparing for clinical work in Spanish-speaking environments. Emphasis is placed on advanced communication skills for patient care, including detailed patient interviews, discussion of diagnoses, treatment plans, and culturally appropriate patient education including cultural concepts of distress and Latinx health issues. Students develop greater fluency and accuracy in professional Spanish through medical role-play simulations, case studies, and authentic healthcare materials.
Welding
This non-credit course offers theory and advanced vocational skill in industrial welding applications. Students will learn advanced metallurgy as it relates to aluminum, sheet-steel, plate and pipe welding. Students will also learn about aircraft and ship-building welding fabrication processes and manufacturing safety hazards. This course allows additional practice and preparation for industrial certifications exams and employment preparation.
Certificates of Completion
- Agriculture Field Supervisor (Noncredit), Certificate of Completion
- Basic Law Enforcement Academy (Noncredit), Certificate of Completion
- English for Multilingual Students—Level 3: Advanced Academic Oral Communication Skills (COCN)
- English for Multilingual Students—Level 3: Advanced Academic Written Communication Skills (COCN)
- Food Safety (Noncredit), Certificate of Completion
- Innovative Cognitive Achievement Network/Journey Overcoming Barriers (ICAN-JOB) (Noncredit), Certificate of Completion
- Medical Interpretation in Spanish (Noncredit), Certificate of Completion (COCN)
- Spanish for Medical Personnel, Certificate of Completion (COCN)
Certificates of Competency
- Academic English Foundations (Noncredit), Certificate of Competency
- English as a Second Language—Level 1: Beginning (Noncredit), Certificate of Competency
- English as a Second Language—Level 2: Intermediate (Noncredit), Certificate of Competency
- Mathematics Readiness (Noncredit), Certificate of Competency